skincare | Original Outlier

First impressions!

Posted on March 19, 2017 by sonalkamath

I recently bought a few new products and wanted to share my thoughts on them! I have only used these for a week or two. So they are technically very new to me.

1) Origins A Perfect World Age- Defense treatment lotion with White tea: I have been on the lookout for a good toner. I tried a few before I found this at Sephora. It has a nice and pleasant fragrance and I instantly liked it. It definitely soothes my skin and preps for the next step. I have also used it to just refresh myself after work when I am feeling a little lazy to wash my face and do the whole routine.

2) Missha Time revolution night repair ampoule: I have read SO many good reviews about this product – I had to try it for myself. Honestly, I’ve used it for a week and I really like it. Definitely made my skin feel very hydrated. Thumbs up for now!

3) Dr.Jart+ Ceramidin Liquid: I have the cream version of the ceramidin which I REALLY like. I had to try the “serum” version. I’ve used it a couple of times, but I need more time with this one to really see the difference. I use it in combination with the cream.

4) Burt’s Bees Hand Salve: Let me start off by saying that I have very scaly and rough hands. Everyone who has held them agrees. The hand creams that I have used in the past apart from the one I mentioned in this —> post, have disappointed me. This hand salve, as the name suggests, “a farmer’s friend”- is really my friend. Not that I am a farmer but my hands do feel like I am laborious. The hand salve is not greasy at all, smells like eucalyptus, which I love and keeps my hand feeling luxurious and soft.

5) Shiseido Benefiance Eye Cream: This cream is heavier than those I have used in the past. But it layers well under my concealer and doesn’t make my under-eye look dry and textured. I enjoy combining the cream with the eye patches I got in this deal from Nordstrom – Totally worth it! I don’t use the patches everyday but once in 4-5 days for a little mid-week pick me up.

6) Petitfee Black Pearl and Gold Hydrogel Eye Patch: I am a fan of eye patches and I recently read #ITGTOPSHELFIE of a reader where these were mentioned. I read good reviews on Amazon and bought it. I’ve only used it once and was impressed. I did not keep the patches in the refrigerator before using them, but they did feel cooling and relaxing after a long day. More on this on my IG stories soon!

I hope you guys liked my opinion-filled (LOL) post about these products. I’ll provide an update on them again on my Instagram. Stay tuned!

Loving lately

Posted on March 1, 2017 by sonalkamath

Just wanted to share a few things that have got me excited in the past couple months. Apart from dreaming about my wishlist, I have truly enjoyed the things I have mentioned below.

MUJI Bag: I was strolling through MUJI three weeks ago to get their acrylic drawers for $10 (as if I didn’t have enough) but the deal was too sweet to resist. You can store a LOT in these drawers. I found bag organizers on sale and this particular bag caught my eye. It has a blue denim kind of look and is water resistant (tried and tested over the weekend in the rain). It’s a small bag that is perfect for everyday essentials and I have been carrying it every day to work. It’s just easy-peasy and fulfills my desire to be super organized! You can check out what’s in my bag here.
Trader Joe’s: Since I have started controlling what I consume every day, I have much appreciated and driven miles to find a Trader Joe’s. The variety of snacks they have makes me want to buy everything. And the dark chocolate is amazing. What more can you ask for. Who knew I would get this excited about grocery one day. Loving Trader Joe’s.
Cole Haan Jacket: This jacket has been a savior in the cold weather. Winter has been bearable with this jacket. It is really comfortable and not too heavy for a long coat. It’s made with 100% down/feathers and the wine color I love!
Apple watch: I am glad that I splurged on my apple watch for New Year’s. I am really happy with it. I had the Series 1 which had terrible battery life so I returned it. The Series 2 was definitely worth the wait. It reminds me to do everything!! Like to stand up when I am lounging like a hippo, breathe when I am super busy and don’t have time. I love it! And its looks so chic like all other apple products.
Skin care: Last but not the least, I am loving my skin care routine right now. I look forward to it every morning when I wake up and at night before bed. It keeps me feeling fresh and lively. When you feel good about yourself you can definitely conquer the world. At least I think so. I know I have been saying this for too long. But I am working on getting my skin care routine up soon. Meanwhile, you can follow me on Instagram (@sonalkam7) where I will be posting my skin care edit in pieces.

I hope you also have a few goodies that you have been loving. Please feel to share them in the comments below!

My Wishlist

Posted on February 11, 2017 by sonalkamath

I hope you guys are enjoying 2017. It’s been a good start for me personally. I’ve got the ball rolling on the whole healthy lifestyle situation. I don’t eat when I am not hungry. I am not thinking or dreaming about food when I am idle. So far so good.

There are a few things that I wish for this year and I thought I would share them with you. NOTE: I might sound greedy as you read through the post but hear me out. I plan to only indulge on special occasions and only if I have earned it by accomplishing my goals. I hope you find inspiration in these pieces and work towards what you wish for.

So here goes!

Dagne Dove- Charlie Tote: Go to this website and look at the bag. You’ll know exactly why I want this. It’s absolutely gorgeous! It has a pocket for everything you want to carry through the day. It even has a pouch for shoes or maybe an extra top/tee you’d want to carry if you are going out after work. And the best thing is the detachable key leash. I am pretty sure I’m not the only one frantically looking for the house keys in my bag while its freezing outside. This one is top on my WANT list. It is extremely pricey ($495) for me but someday I will afford it!
Perch by Urbio 5-piece starter kit: This is such a chic way of organizing your desk or vanity or even plant some succulent in them. I love how clean it looks and you can see it in action on Tamira Jarrel’s blog post. This is good inspiration for my desk/ vanity that I will be setting up when I move in a couple of months. It is affordable ($39) and you can also purchases additional pieces to go with it.
Umbra Storage: This website makes me want to buy everything! I love their HUB Ladder in White ($80) to use as a entryway coat rack or just for your throws by the couch. Their wall planters are so modern and chic and some of them also have shelves for storing some books or a small speaker. I love their variety for jewelry storage from stands and boxes; they have it all. Once you scroll through the site you’ll probably end up buying things you didn’t know you wanted. Definitely looking into Umbra for my next apartment storage and organization.
Charlotte Tilbury Instant look in a palette Seductive Beauty: This palette is so beautiful. The shades are subtle and smoky at the same time. I REALLY want this palette. It is everything you would need for travel except for a lip color. But she even has kits with the lipsticks of your choice. It is also a pricey purchase ($75) but this has made it to the top of my beauty wish list. It’s perfect!
Chanel Skin care: I have been looking to switch to Chanel for skin care. I don’t what it is, but the creams and also their makeup are so luxurious. I love how they smell and feel on the skin. The fragrance isn’t overwhelming at all. I am looking into the Chanel Hydra Beauty Crème ($87), Le Lift crème anti wrinkle eye cream ($105) and the Rinse-off foaming mousse cleanser balance+ anti-pollution ($45). Obviously I cannot afford all of them together. But I will work on acquiring them one at a time. Goodbye Savings! LOL.
Mejuri 360 earrings: This pair ($95) is made in 14k solid gold. I love indulging in earrings cause I wear them everyday as opposed to necklaces or rings. It is definitely next on my jewelry radar. Mejuri has a great selection of everyday fine jewelry and I think they have something for everyone.

I hope you have enjoyed my wish list and want to indulge in luxury yourself. It’s always great to have goals and some motivation (shopping) to achieve them. These beautiful pieces are certainly going to keep me on my feet this year. Wish me luck!

5-minute make-up drawer

Posted on January 28, 2017 by sonalkamath

I recently gave in and invested in MUJI drawers. I got two of the large acrylic 2-drawers with/ without lid. To tell you the truth, I love them! They are so sleek and neat, they look really classy on my bulky chest of drawers that I got from Wal-Mart when I moved 2 years ago. They are quite functional and store a LOT of products for your morning routine.

Obviously, no one has the time for make-up in the morning. There have been times I have landed on my desk like a street urchin. But these drawers have helped me to pick exactly what I need to look my best and get a head start to my day. I make sure I have at least 5-7 minutes every morning to prep myself.

To give you a break down of my routine- After my skincare (which isn’t included in these 5 minutes because I consider that part VERY important), I start with Glossier priming moisturizer. This makes for a really hydrated base which works best for the gloomy and colder days. Then I have been truly loving my Chanel CC cream in 40 beige to give me a natural “dewy” look. And my t-zone doesn’t get oily through the day which is a plus. Sometimes I switch it out for the Vitalumière Moisture rich fluid makeup SPF 15 in 40 beige. This is equally good but I do need to use blotting paper once in the day. The good thing is both have SPF.

For my everyday concealer, I have been using the Glossier Stretch concealer in 30 Dark. I apply both using the IT cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Complexion Perfection brush #7. The kabuki side of the brush applies any cream product flawlessly and the other side is great for concealer. It gives a no-streaky application.

Once I have my base on, I apply the medium shades in the Chanel Les 4 Ombres in 266 Les Essentiel in my crease to give definition. Then I use my Hourglass Ambient lighting blush in Luminous flush which is the perfect shade for a natural “flush”. Then I use the Becca Skin Perfector in Opal on the high points of my cheeks, cupid’s bow and all the good stuff. Or it is the Glossier Haloscope in Moonstone. Then I wear any lip color lying in my top drawer. Lately, I have been seriously loving the Chanel Rouge Coco Stylo in 214 Message. Another favorite has been the Glossier lip gloss which isn’t too goopy and great for everyday. Unfortunately, this is sold out. I alternate both with my YSL rouge volupte shine in 48 Smoking plum. It is still one of my favs. All of these are great for winter as they do not exaggerate dry lips and are quite moisturizing.

There you have it! This has been my go-to or 5-minute make up: whatever you call it. I hope you enjoy these products if you choose to buy them. I will definitely be following up with my recent skincare routine so stay tuned!

My travel essentials

Posted on December 30, 2016 by sonalkamath

I am traveling for the NYE weekend and thought I should share my essentials with you guys! I hope this will help you in some way to plan out and not ruin your holiday thinking about what you left home. My friends tell me that I pack fast and pack well. But I know that I forget one small thing that definitely irks me.

So I have made a comprehensive list here (Note: This list might look like a little too much but trust me all of it will fit in your travel bag). So let’s begin:

Clothing: I don’t judge people who over pack this section. I get it, you never know what you might need. But if you plan smart you might get away with a few pairs. For example, I am going for 3 days, 2 nights. So I am bringing a pair of jeans, a pair of sweatpants, 2 tops and my NYE outfit. Also one pair of nightwear that I will be wearing both nights. Undergarments- I do not want to curb you on this. But take as many or as little as you like. I won’t judge! LOL.
Cold weather: 2 pairs of socks for two days and one I will be wearing when I leave. This is because I know it will be snowing and I will have my boots on. I dislike wearing old socks. I am carrying one beanie, one coat/ jacket, one pair of gloves which I will be wearing all three days. With my boots, I will be carrying a pair of heels for NYE.
My handbag essentials: I have talked about this in my previous post and I hardly ever change anything in it. Except for may be tampons (Let’s get real). These are must haves.
Accessories: I will be wearing a pair of ear studs, carrying one pair for NYE, one necklace and that’s it.
Things you forget and might need: Bobby pins, hair elastic, safety pins, Q-tips, bandaids for those nasty blisters because of new heels, toothbrush and toothpaste- I hate buying these everytime I am on a holiday. I will definitely need an anti-perspirant, mouthwash and ibuprofen. I know it sounds like I am taking my entire apartment but all of this really will fit in a cosmetic pouch. I suggest getting one of those mini emergency kits that you can throw in your handbag so you don’t have to make your own. One of my soon to be married friends recently visited me from Dubai and she bought one for brides. It is quite practical to have one. Also congratulations to the happy couple and wishing you both all the very best!
Make-up, skin & haircare: This takes most of my luggage space. And you’ll see why as you read on! I really enjoy my skincare and make up when on a holiday. Like I indulge in a sheet mask or a face mask while watching TV in the hotel room while curling up in the comfy bed. With makeup, I can really take my time to create the look I want. This is the best part about a holiday, time is on your side. And I make the most of it. Sorry I digress, while I sip on a glass of wine. Make up- take one of each. I repeat, one of each! Here goes- primer, foundation, concealer, setting powder, brow gel, eye primer, eyeshadow palette, eye liner, mascara, lip liner, lipstick, blush and highlighter. Not much into contouring, I go for the more subtle look. Now for skincare- face wash, body wash, body lotion, moisturizer for face and eyes, serums or any treatment products you are currently using, toner, and sunscreen. Haircare- I like to carry samples of a shampoo and conditioner. And the travel size of my Oribe dry texturizing spray. I also use this as a dry shampoo. And some heat protectant spray for styling. This does sound like a lot but if you are an enthusiast like me you will want all of it. I suggest using all of the sephora samples you have accumulated or take it from a friend who has. So that you don’t overdo it. LOL! I know this list varies for every person but make sure you carry only one of each. If you do not wear one of these then you get to carry one more of the other category. How does that sound!? It is only fair.

Some of these items are add ons just because its NYE. And that I wouldn’t normally carry on a holiday. I like to sleep and eat while I vegetate in my sweatpants on a regular holiday.

I hope you guys are having a great holiday season, are looking and feeling the best for NYE. Wishing you guys a fun-filled evening/ night. Cheers!

Products I splurged on this holiday season

Posted on November 29, 2016 by sonalkamath

I think this is the happiest time of the year for me. Starting with thanskgiving and that ends on New year. I am not really fond of 1st January as every new years’ day I sit back and think about how much time I wasted doing nothing or what steps I could have taken to make the year more productive or just better. Anyway my point is I’d like to keep this heavy thought for later and concentrate on the happy month that we have ahead of us. The month that is filled with food, family, fun and LOTS of SHOPPING!

The concept of gifting during the holidays was alien to me in India. Obviously that did not stop me from shopping but you get the point. When I came to the US it was totally different. The sales just come up for no particular reason. Like your birthday, random weekday or just cause its a sunday! Its like fuel to the fire. But who’s complaining right? Every promotional email I receive, I definitely go and check out the website that sent it. May be put a few things in the bag and then look at my checking account and then close the shopping bag window. This holiday season I bought and also came across some cool things. I would definitely like to share them with you guys. Some things are not too expensive but some are luxury! Hope you enjoy!

1) Glossier Black Tie Set: This set is great as a gift and also just to keep it for yourself. That’s what I did! I couldn’t give the beautiful set away. So, the set includes 4 full size products- Haloscope in Moonstone which looks great on all skin tones. I am a medium-tan and it never looks ashy or too light on me. I love it! The nail polish in #glossierpink which you can literally pair with any outfit. I have been wearing it since two weeks. Next up- lipgloss. They did not go wrong with this one. Its non-tacky and gives beautiful shine to your lips which is long lasting. I love how it ties your entire make up look together. Last but not least, the eyeliner in No.1. To tell your the truth I haven’t been a fan of dark eyeliners. I always felt like it made my eye look small but this shade in graphite is perfect and it looks really good when I smudge it out on the outer corners of my eye. Oh! And I forgot the black ribbon that comes with the box I have already used it to tie my hair at work and I am thinking about it as a choker this holiday season. This set is definitely you affordable luxury. You can check it out and get 20% off with this link

2) Articles of society– ‘Sarah’ Skinny jeans: I love me some comfortable skinny jeans but I can never find the perfect fit. I have been the in-between size for as long as I can remember. Anyway, this pair when they say it’s super soft they are not kidding. The feel of these jeans is so comfortable. I also like the dark sort of patch at the of the legs. And they fit me very well and they are mid-rise size 6. Love these! They are on sale right now! You can check them out here

3) Facial Hydrating Mists: These are great gifts for your skin care junky friends and obviously for you. The two that I have been loving are the Farmacy skin dew hydrating essence mist and setting spray and the Glossier soothing face mist. I have been keeping the Farmacy mist at my desk at work to keep me refreshed throughout the day. I haven’t used it as a setting spray as such. I enjoy the Glossier one after shower to lock in moisture. Both equally work well for me and I totally recommend them. Check them out here and here

4) Foreo Luna play: I know a lot of people are on the fence about this. But I really like it to use it with my Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser at home and while I am on vacation. Its very easy to travel with, literally can go in your pocket. It does a good job of cleaning my face and I haven’t had big breakouts since I have used the combination. Check it out here

5) Royal Apothic Hothouse peonie hand cream: I came across this hand cream at Anthropologie. I was obsessing over it for over 20 minutes while at the store. I love surfing through the beauty section to find eclectic products and perfumes. I bought 5 different hand creams to give as gifts but this one is my favorite one. This contains a fragrance obviously so if you are allergic to fragrance I would just smell this in the store and walk away. Just kidding! Totally up to you! The peonie one is sold out online. But you can find similar ones here

6) Lush Soap in Honey I washed my kids: This soap is life! I got a small sample of this when my friend form Abu Dhabi was here. She recommended it to me and I did not want to commit to a soap without using it. I love this now! I am definitely going back for a large piece of this soap to last me forever! My showers have been lovely thanks to this soap. If you are not a soap person I suggest you become one cause this one is totally worth it! Check it out here

7) A value set I have been totally enjoying is the Mask-A-Holic 5 piece set from Peter Thomas Roth. This set is $75 and comes with 5 variety face masks 1.7oz each and a mask applicator This set will last you a long time! Totally great for multimasking and spending an evening relaxing with a glass of wine! 🙂 It is currently sold out at sephora.com but sign up here to find out when it is back in stock.

8) Sunday Riley Juno hydroactive cellular face oil: This is the most expensive skin care item I own. So I am really hoping it will change my life and make me look like Shay Mitchell. Lol. But seriously, I really want this product to work. I have used it a couple of times. Will update on my winter skin care routine soon and hopefully this will be a part of it! Check it out here

Adios for now!

Glossier Black Tie Set

Peter Thomas Roth masks, Foreo Luna Play and Royal apothic hand cream

Glossier Face Mist and Farmacy Essence mist

10 Things I am enjoying right now!

Posted on September 12, 2016 by sonalkamath

Now that you guys know a little bit about me, I wanted to share a few things I have been enjoying lately. Hope you find something in common or something new to enjoy yourself!

Home-cooked meals: When I lived at home(back in India), I took home cooked meals for granted. And now, I really miss it. But considering Pia’s mother is visiting, we are having home cooked meals everyday!
The little book of skin care by Charlotte Cho: This book is really great if you want to start your own skincare routine. The information she has provided is great even for a beginner to understand. Her experiences make me want to visit Seoul myself!
Skin-care: I have really started taking care of my skin since fall/winter is just around the corner. Also, because I do not wish to have scaly skin like a snake which I did last year. The book really helped me understand why I need to take so many steps to make my skin look and feel right. The entire experience feels like I am at a spa and gives me time to concentrate on myself.
Baby pics: My cousin had a baby girl last month. She is just so adorable. I was amazed by her expressions and her fearlessness. Her life is so simple- eat, sleep, poop, repeat! I have been loving her pictures on Instagram. Its my daily dose of gooeyness. I love her!
Sleeping: I am religiously sleeping 7-8 hours a day which I have always wanted to do. No skimming- I have noticed my body/ mind is loving it! Zzzzzzz!
Some good news: This year has been great with good news. Two of my close friends from school decided to get married. Congratulations to Roshni, Pria and Sid! Few friends got promotions. People seem to be happy around me. So I guess I am really happy 🙂
Shopping: This should have been at the top of my list! Since it was my birthday a few days ago-I shopped a lot! The labor day sales didn’t help either. I bought two Kate spade bags, a LOT of skin care items from SokoGlam, Uniqlo basics etc. I will follow up later with 10 of my favorite items this month!
Homeland on Hulu: I know this show aired a few years ago, but I recently started watching this. I have already completed 4 seasons and just began my 5th one last night. Its a complete rollercoaster of emotions if you enjoy psychological/political thrillers. Must watch!
Cereal: My favorite cereal for a while has been Lucky charms. I love them! My colleague was really surprised (a little offended) when I told her that I didn’t know what it was. My apartment has been stocked up since then!
Day-dreaming: Come on! I love day-dreaming about random stuff. It gives me great pleasure to see where my mind can wander when I am idle!

I hope you enjoyed my list! And please comment below with what you have been enjoying. So I can get on it too! Also, just want to take a moment to be thankful for all my friends. Every now and then I realize how lucky I am to have found them. I love you guys!